HC Deb 14 April 1970 vol 799 c1199
24. Mr. Lane

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what is his latest estimate of the cost of cleaning the exterior of the Palace of Westminster.

Mr. Loughlin

About £225,000.

Mr. Lane

Does the hon. Gentleman agree that as soon as it could be afforded, this would do more than any other cleaning operation to improve the beauty and attractiveness of this part of Central London?

Mr. Loughlin

As long as the hon. Gentleman prefaces his question with "As soon as it can be afforded" I will accept what he says.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Does my hon. Friend realise that this expense should not be undertaken, because the Palace of Westminster is much more picturesque with its present antique appearance than it would be if it were whitewashed?

Mr. Loughlin

I am afraid that I could not accept that remark.